Space for almost 100 extra graves at Wellington Cemetary has been created by digging up the hard standing area at the centre of the burial ground. Taunton council’s Cemeteries and Crematorium Service has spent £23,000 to create space for the new plots within the cemetery, enough for the next eight to ten years. Currently, there are just four plots remaining at the site.

“The income generated from this would be upwards of £100,000 for the sale of the graves, memorial rights and interments,” TDBC were told by officials prior to the work being approved.

“There would be an opportunity to provide some cremated remains placement options, which would further enhance choice and generate income.

“Having a further 100 graves will allow a continuation of service while further options for land are identified in the Wellington area.”

Cllr Patrick Berry, Deane House, lead councillor for the service, said: “We have plenty of burial places in Taunton, but we’re running out in Wellington. It’s very important to continue the service for the people of Wellington. If we don’t make some extra areas we’ll run out by the end of the year.”